Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil

Description

Flaxseed oil is often referred to as linseed oil. It is a significant plant source of omega fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid), which have a calming effect on the skin. These polyunsaturated fatty acids, which also include oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, improve skin moisture by preventing water loss. Flaxseed oil easily penetrates into the upper layers of the skin, carrying along other beneficial ingredients (but these ingredients must also be oil-soluble, so for example, flaxseeds would not be good carriers of water-soluble vitamin C, but are excellent for delivering oil-soluble vitamin E). This lightweight oil helps nourish the skin membranes, improving moisture absorption, restoring softness and elasticity to the skin, and soothing sensitive, dry skin. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil act as an anti-inflammatory to calm skin affected by eczema or acne. Since flaxseed oil is one of the best natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids, these compounds moisturize, strengthen, and protect hair. They improve elasticity and prevent hair breakage. People who are deficient in these essential fatty acids may experience dry hair and hair loss.